Amla steps down as SA vice-captain

Hashim Amla quit as South African vice-captain in ODIs and T20 cricket after his reluctance to take over as skipper during the series against New Zealand.

Amla wanted to focus on his batting and said it would be unfair to remain deputy if he was still not sure about assuming the captain's role, Sports 24 reported.

Despite giving up his official position in the team, Amla insisted he would continue his role of advisor and all the responsibilities of a senior player in the side.

Amla, who also took a break from T20 cricket, said he wanted some space to manage his time between different formats in what is a hectic international schedule.

However, the Proteas batsman did not rule out a return to the shortest format of the game in the future.

Amla, who was handed the vice-captaincy of the side in 2011, has captained South Africa in two T20s and three ODIs against Australia besides five unofficial T20s against Zimbabwe in de Villiers' absence.